One of the questions I hear most often from people starting Pilates is whether they should begin with Mat or Reformer.
The simple answer is: there isn’t a better one.
Reformer Pilates has become incredibly popular, and for many people it is their first introduction to Pilates. But Pilates doesn’t begin and end with the Reformer. Matwork is a fundamental part of the method, and the two approaches have much more in common than social media sometimes makes it seem.
Both are built around the same principles: control, precision, strength, mobility, breathing and awareness of how your body moves.
The difference is in how you experience them.
Why start with Reformer Pilates?
The Reformer uses springs, straps and a moving carriage to provide both resistance and assistance.
This can make it a very enjoyable place to start. The equipment gives you feedback as you move, and exercises can be adapted considerably depending on your experience, strength and mobility.
If you enjoy equipment-based training, want to build strength or simply find the idea of a Reformer class more exciting, start there.
You do not need to be flexible, strong or experienced before your first class. That is what the practice is there to help you develop.
Why start with Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates can look simpler from the outside. You have a mat, your body and perhaps a few small props.
But simpler does not necessarily mean easier.
Without the support or resistance of the Reformer, you have to create much of the control yourself. Matwork teaches you to understand your own body weight, organise your movement and develop strength without relying on a machine.
It is also incredibly practical. Once you understand the foundations, you can practise almost anywhere.
If you want to develop strong fundamentals, enjoy working with your own body weight or want a practice you can easily continue at home or while travelling, Mat is a brilliant place to begin.
Is Reformer more effective than Mat?
Not necessarily.
I think we sometimes make Pilates more complicated than it needs to be. Your body doesn't know whether your class looked impressive. It responds to how you move, how consistently you practise and how appropriately you are challenged.
A good Mat class can be incredibly demanding. A good Reformer class can be incredibly precise. And both can be adapted to meet you where you are.
The quality of the teaching and the way you practise matter more than choosing the supposedly “best” format.
So, which one should you choose?
If one genuinely appeals to you more, start with that one.
The best introduction to Pilates is often the one that makes you want to come back next week.
Over time, though, I think there is real value in experiencing both. Reformer can help you explore resistance, support and a wider range of movement. Matwork asks you to take that understanding back into your own body.
They complement each other beautifully.
And eventually, the goal isn't to become good at using a Reformer.
It's to become better at using your body.
Ready to start?
You can join me for group Reformer and Mat classes in London, or work with me privately in the studio, at home or online.